Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that brings the whole family together, you’ve landed in the right place! This Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce is a delightful dish that’s not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor. Imagine tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and savory noodles all mingling together in one pan. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or even casual weekend gatherings when you want something special without too much fuss!

What makes this recipe truly shine is the homemade chow mein sauce. It’s deliciously rich and elevates the dish beyond any takeout option. Trust me, once you try this at home, you’ll be hooked!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 35 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for those busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: With its colorful veggies and tasty chicken, everyone will want seconds!
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal and relax with loved ones.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of the best chow mein sauce gives this recipe a depth of flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! You’ll find everything you need right at your local grocery store. Let’s dive into what makes this Chicken Chow Mein so hearty and satisfying.

For the Chicken and Noodles

• 1 lb chicken breast (boneless, skinless)
• 12 oz chow mein noodles (uncooked noodles)

For the Vegetables

• 2 cups cabbage
• 1 large carrot (julienned)
• 1/2 batch green onions

For the Sauce

• 3 Tbsp oil
• 2 garlic cloves
• 4 Tbsp oyster sauce (or added to taste)
• 3 Tbsp low sodium soy sauce
• 3 Tbsp light sesame oil (not toasted)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 Tbsp corn starch
• 1 Tbsp granulated sugar

Variations

One of the best parts about this Chicken Chow Mein recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Swap the protein: Try using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different flavor profile!
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Add some red pepper flakes or sliced chili peppers if you like a bit of heat.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute gluten-free noodles and ensure your sauces are certified gluten-free.

How to Make Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the oyster sauce, granulated sugar, sesame oil, soy sauce, chicken broth, and cornstarch. This blend creates a deliciously rich sauce that binds all the flavors together beautifully. Setting it aside allows the flavors to meld while you prepare everything else.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Next, cook your chow mein noodles according to package instructions. Once they’re done, drain them and rinse with cold water—this step keeps them from sticking together later on. Set them aside; they’re going to soak up all those wonderful flavors soon!

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

Heat a large wok or pan over medium heat with some olive oil. Cut your chicken breasts into bite-sized strips and cook them until they’re golden brown. This browning adds depth of flavor to your dish. Once they’re cooked through, remove them from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same pan, add your julienned carrots, cabbage, and pressed garlic. Sauté these for a few minutes until they soften slightly; this enhances their natural sweetness and ensures they complement your dish perfectly.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked chicken and noodles back into the pan with your sautéed vegetables. Pour that luscious sauce over everything and continue cooking for another two minutes. This step helps all those fantastic flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Finally, garnish your chow mein with chopped green onions before serving straight from the pan while it’s piping hot! Your family will be gathering around for this one-pan wonder in no time.

Enjoy every delicious bite of this Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce

Cooking chicken chow mein at home can be a breeze with a few helpful tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Prep Ahead: Chop your veggies and chicken in advance. This saves time and makes the cooking process smoother, allowing you to focus on enjoying your meal.
• Don’t Overcook the Veggies: Stir-fry your vegetables until they are just tender. This keeps them vibrant and crunchy, adding a delightful texture to your dish.
• Use High Heat: Cooking on medium-high heat helps to achieve that wonderful wok hei (or breath of the wok) flavor. It gives the noodles that perfect char and enhances the overall taste.
• Balance Flavors: Taste your sauce before adding it to the pan. Adjusting the sweetness or saltiness ensures that your chow mein is well-seasoned and flavorful.
• Serve Immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve your chicken chow mein hot off the stove. This way, you’ll enjoy those delicious noodles at their finest!

How to Serve Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce

Presentation matters! A beautifully served chicken chow mein not only looks appetizing but also sets a warm, inviting atmosphere at your dining table.

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: Fresh green onions add a pop of color and a mild oniony flavor, enhancing both presentation and taste.
• Sesame Seeds: Sprinkling toasted sesame seeds on top brings a nutty flavor and a bit of crunch, making each bite even more enjoyable.
• Fresh Cilantro: A few sprigs of cilantro can brighten up the dish with fresh herbal notes that complement the savory elements beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli provides a lovely green contrast while boosting fiber content in your meal.
• Egg Drop Soup: This light and comforting soup pairs wonderfully with chow mein, offering warmth and additional protein without overwhelming flavors.
• Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls make for an excellent appetizer. They add an extra layer of texture and are great for dipping in soy or sweet chili sauce.
• Fried Rice: If you’re feeling indulgent, serve your chow mein alongside fried rice for a hearty meal full of flavors that complement each other perfectly.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to enjoy your homemade chicken chow mein like never before! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time, allowing for quick and delicious weeknight dinners or lunches.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover chow mein in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing the container.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze your chow mein, allow it to cool first.
• Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from the refrigerator, simply warm it up in a pan over medium heat until heated through.
• If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge, then follow the same reheating process.
• You can also use a microwave; just cover and heat in short bursts, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Have questions about making this delicious dish? Here are some answers!

Can I customize my Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you have on hand, like bell peppers or snap peas. You can also adjust the sauce ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

What is the best way to serve Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce?

Serve this chow mein hot straight from the pan. Garnish with freshly chopped green onions and perhaps some sesame seeds for added flavor and crunch!

How long does Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, your chow mein can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Chicken Chow Mein with the Best Chow Mein Sauce as much as I do! It’s such a comforting dish that brings together so many wonderful flavors and textures. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend meal, this one-pan wonder is sure to please everyone at your table. Happy cooking!